The Fascinating History of Snickers: From a Family Horse to a Global Chocolate Sensation

Snickers, the beloved chocolate bar that’s been delighting consumers since its introduction in 1930, has a rich and unique history. This article delves into the origins of this iconic treat, tracing its roots back to the Mars family and their beloved horse, Marathon.

Origins and Naming

In the early 1930s, during the Great Depression, the Mars family began experimenting with new candy recipes. Frank Mars, the founder of Mars Inc., came up with the iconic Snickers bar. The name of this chocolate bar has a curious history.

According to Mars, the U.S. company behind the Snickers brand, the bar was named after ‘Marathon,’ their favorite horse. However, the story is not as cut and dried as it might seem. While SNICKERS was indeed the name of the family’s pet horse, it’s likely that the choice of the word has deeper origins.

The Mars children, known for their love of horses, may have chosen the name due to its upbeat and energetic connotations. The original intent might have been simply to adopt a name that would evoke a sense of vitality and adventure, rather than a direct reference to the horse.

The Snickers Chocolate Bar

The first Snickers chocolate bar was created in 1930 and consisted of nougat, peanuts, caramel, and a chocolate coating. This combination of flavors provided a balanced and satisfying treat, quickly catching on with consumers.

Interestingly, for a long time, the bar was known as “Marathon” in the United Kingdom. Mars explains that this was a strategic decision to avoid confusion with other brands named Snickers. In the rest of the world, however, the name stuck with the chocolate bar, although it underwent a change in branding in 1990.

The Naming Controversy

The naming of the Snickers bar is a subject of some debate. Some stories suggest that it was named after a horse, while others hint at a different origin. Frank Mars, the founder of the company, believed it was named after his horse Marathon. However, it’s also possible that the name was chosen for its commercial advantages, such as its easy-to-remember and catchy sound.

Interestingly, the practice of naming products after animals isn’t unique to chocolate bars; it’s a technique used across various industries. For example, in 1972, the Cessna aircraft company named their new line of jet aircraft after a horse, Citation, due to its strong performance and efficiency, just as Mars’ choice for a pet was likely chosen due to affinity.

Snickers Today

Today, Snickers is more than just a sweet treat. The brand has grown to become an icon, not only in the candy industry but also in popular culture. From TV commercials to music references, Snickers has become synonymous with a certain level of happiness and satisfaction.

While the origins of the name might be shrouded in mystery, the power of Snickers as a brand is undeniable. It continues to delight millions of consumers around the world with its distinctive combination of flavors and its iconic branding.

Conclusion

The history of Snickers is a testament to the enduring power of great branding. From a small experiment in the early 1930s to a global sensation, Snickers has stood the test of time. Whether it’s due to the horse, its catchy name, or simply because of its delicious taste, Snickers has captured the hearts of many across generations.